Tiafoe talks about what he learned from his match against Federer in 2017

The American will reach the quarterfinals in the US Open after defeating Alexei Popyrin, Djokovic's executioner. Thus, the local player spoke with the media about his victory and his match against the Swiss a few years ago.

Mónica Barberán Munera | 2 Sep 2024 | 08.40
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Frances Tiafoe at the US Open 2024. Photo: Getty
Frances Tiafoe at the US Open 2024. Photo: Getty

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Frances Tiafoe managed to defeat one of the star players of this late stage of the year: Alexei Popyrin at the US Open. The Australian arrived in very good form after winning his first Masters 1000 in Canada, which gave him the confidence to beat Novak Djokovic in New York. However, Tiafoe halted his progress, a significant victory for the American who will once again reach the quarterfinals of his beloved tournament. In a press conference, Frances talked about his opponent's great form and how the time before summer has taught him never to be overconfident. Additionally, he also discussed Serena Williams and Roger Federer.

- Forced to play a good match against Popyrin

"It seems more obvious to me that Novak is out. Alexei has been playing incredibly, he just won a Masters 1000. This is the third time they have played in a Grand Slam this year. Alexei has taken sets off him, and Novak just won the Olympics. For me, as a tennis enthusiast, it wasn't the most surprising thing in the world. Obviously, beating Novak is a great achievement anytime, anywhere, no matter when. I feel Alexei had the level and he proved it today. It was a very high level, so I had to do great things".

- A challenging period before summer

"This time has changed me, I guess it teaches you. You must not get too comfortable; tennis is the most unforgiving game there is. Do not think you have all the answers, do not get complacent because the game will test you. I think I am a very tough guy and I can turn things around quickly if I commit 100%. Also, when you make tough decisions. It is very important to have the right people around you. Everything happens when it has to happen and I am glad it is now at this crucial moment for me".

- A demanding calendar and a long season

"It is very easy to say when things go wrong. I am tired; everyone has traveled whether you win or lose, everyone has followed the schedule. I do not think that is an excuse; I believe that if you are not at your best level, you will lose. If you are not ready to play, if you are not fully present, you will lose. Fatigue and such things are not excuses. I have been preserving my energy and have done everything possible to be in my best shape and be able to compete".

- What Serena Williams told him before stepping onto the court

"The fact that she wanted to come out and talk to me before the match, to tell me she will always have my back no matter what happens, that she is happy to see a person of color playing and doing well. It's great that she sees me this way, tells me she only wants the best for me, and gives me some encouragement just before the match".

- Memory of his 5-set match with Federer in 2017 where the Swiss won

"It was a long time ago, I was 19 years old. At that time, I thought, 'wow, I definitely should be here'. It was my third US Open and I was very excited, but also very nervous because I thought I had to face Roger. When we got to the fifth set, I thought, 'Am I about to beat this guy? This is insane'. I think that definitely told me I am ready for these moments. I like being in these moments, I feel comfortable even without winning. At that time, he also had an incredible year. He won a couple of Grand Slams. That made me think I am capable, without a doubt".

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Tiafoe habla de lo que aprendió de su partido ante Federer en 2017